Powell Observatory is owned and operated by the Astronomical Society of Kansas City and staffed by volunteer ASKC members.

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Credit: Bruce Hollensbe

Public Nights

The observatory is open to the public Saturday nights, May through October and for special astronomical events. Public programs include an educational presentation on an interesting astronomy topic, a tour of the night sky and viewing through the telescopes (weather permitting). See schedule for hours and details.

Requested Donation: 12 & Over: $8 | 5-11: $5 | Under 5: Free

Because the observatory is staffed by volunteers, we request a donation upon entry to help maintain and operate the observatory.

Private Events

Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 913.438.3825. A reservation fee of $100 + $5 per person is required to reserve the observatory for private events.

About the Observatory

Built in 1984 by society members, the observatory is located about 25 miles South of Kansas City in Lewis-Young Park, just North of Louisburg, KS. At this location, skies are much darker than in the city. The observatory has one of the largest telescopes open to the public in a five-state area - the Ruisinger Telescope, a Newtonian reflector with a 30" diameter mirror. In addition, the observatory has other telescopes available for public viewing.